Environmental lawyers

Welsh marine life threatened by lack of funding and political will – new report

News / 10 August 2017

Vulnerable marine life in Welsh waters is at risk from lack of funding and political will in the Welsh government. This is the conclusion of a new report from the Welsh Climate Change, Environment and Rural Affairs Committee.

ClientEarth lawyer Alice Puritz said: “This is yet more proof that Welsh seas are suffering due to lack of investment and political will. Designating part of the ocean a Marine Protected Area means nothing if the plants and animals living there are not protected from damaging fishing, pollution and other threats.

“The Welsh government must use this report as a shot in the arm to stop boasting about seas which are protected only in name, and start committing the resources really needed to properly defend marine life around its shores.”

Alice added: “The government must also make sure European Marine Protected Areas are not left vulnerable after Brexit. We call on ministers to respond to this report with urgent proposals to protect vulnerable marine life in its care.”